Whose Flag is it Anyway?? - Monthly Open Discussion

With all the flags popping up in recent months we thought this may be a good topic for discussion.

Flags are clearly symbols of group identity – real or imagined and can prove powerful symbols that mean something and can bring people with often different views together.

Most commonly associated with national identity, flags can also identify different regional groupings (civic areas etc), ethnic groupings, religions, military groups, social and political movements, family identity (e.g. heraldry). They’re sometimes used commercially to identify brands.
Flags are often visible during civic and sporting events – to show support and express a group identity.

Some of the flags can engender feelings of strong association – perhaps pride/patriotism and even represent some perceived values. But, emblems like flags can be appropriated – so that their meaning changes and how they are viewed changes – so much so that some people may no longer wish to be associated with the flag.
What is it about flags – are they needed for national identity – should they be protected – should we restrict where and when they are displayed – does anyone “own” the symbols – what happens when they no longer represent what we thought they did?

Do you like discussing matters that can prove contentious - that help us consider different aspects of life and living and considering things from different perspectives?

Please join us in the Meeting Room in the Storyhouse Library for a discussion that allows free respectful expression of views and consideration of different points of view.

Space is limited so please make sure you RSVP.

Please bring your ideas for future discussions!

The event is free to attend though a donation may be requested (suggested donation £5).